Switch and crossing inspections and maintenance management using handheld computers

This paper discusses a new tool designed to assist in the performance of switch and crossing inspections. Known as Switchlnspect^TM, this PDA-based program allows the inspection to be conducted in electronic format. With measurements and defects recorded in this manner, the collected information may be used to more efficiently manage maintenance activities for switch and crossings. This is achieved through the development of numeric priority ratings for maintenance activities to include tamping, gauging, S&C grinding, welding/hand grinding, and component replacement. This paper describes in details the use and function of Switchlnspect, the development and use of the maintenance indices, and gives a brief listing of the growing number of railroads around the world that have begun to rely on PDA-based track inspection tools.